Merritt RCMP are looking for this van after its occupants allegedly tried to lure a pair of young girls. (Photo via Merritt RCMP)

Update 3:49 p.m. Wednesday: Merritt RCMP say they have located the van and identified the suspects after at attempted luring at the 7-Eleven around 6 p.m. Tuesday night.

Sgt. Josh Roda says the suspects were stopped, identified and detained for the investigation.

“There was not enough evidence to pursue any criminal charges and they claimed they did not have a nefarious purpose for approaching the two girls.”

Roda says the suspects were warned about their actions and is also urging parents to speak to their children about being safe when interacting with strangers.

The Mounties thank the public and the media for their help.

Original Post: RCMP in Merritt are asking for help in identifying a van and its occupants after an attempted child luring at the 7-Eleven around 6 p.m. last night.

Sgt. Josh Roda says that is when the white panel van with a ladder on its roof pulled into the 7-Eleven parking lot on Nicola Avenue in downtown Merritt, noting the two men inside tried to lure a pair of young girls into the van.

In a statement, Roda says both girls refused, noting the van drove out of the parking lot east on Nicola Avenue.

“We are asking the public for their assistance to locate and identify the owner of the van.,” he said.  “If you see or recognize the van, please do not approach it and call the Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.”

Roda is also urging parents to speak to their children about being safe when interacting with strangers.